Viscum album in Veterinary Medicine

Ana Catarina Viana Valle, Aloisio Cunha de Carvalho

Abstract: Viscum album L., also called "Mistletoe", is a semi-parasitic plant from the European continent that grows on several host trees. This plant has a wide variety of active compounds that can be used for treating various diseases, such as diabetes, epilepsy, hypertension, among others. However, it is most indicated in human medicine for the adjuvant treatment of cancer patients. In Veterinary Medicine, very few studies record such indication for animals, although formulations for commercial use are available in oral and injectable forms, with very low doses of their active compounds. It is known that this medicine is routinely administered in clinics and veterinary offices with excellent results. In addition, it has been tested on a large scale by groups of researchers and independent clinicians in different countries, such as Switzerland, Germany, and Brazil. Therefore, this review aimed to gather data on the use of Viscum album within Veterinary Medicine so that there are consistent references and clear indications of its use.

Keywords: Veterinary Medicine, indications, mistletoe